Ski binding, in particular a telemark ski binding, and ski provided with such a binding

ABSTRACT

A binding having a front plate (2), a front assembly (3) for immobilising the boot and capable of cooperating with the sole (81) of the boot (8), a rear assembly (6) for retaining the boot and capable of cooperating with a retaining lug (85) of the rear portion of the front sole and/or with the rear sole, the rear assembly being movable relative to the front plate in the vertical plane, and tensioning means (66) which act between the rear retaining assembly (6) and the ski and/or the front plate (2) and which are capable of tensioning the boot (8) on the binding (1) and enabling the heel to be raised freely. The front immobilisation assembly is mounted in a floating manner on the front plate about a transverse pivot axis (A3), the supporting point enabling the front end (81′) of the sole (81) of the boot.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a ski binding, more specifically of the telemark type. Nevertheless, it finds its application in bindings fitted in other types of skis, such as cross-country skis, that the user wishes to use in “telemark” mode.

PRIOR ART

Traditionally ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski bindings enable easy lifting of the heel in practice either for climbing or to make telemark steps to make a turn. To be able to make this move, the bindings hold the toe of the boot by means of a toe piece leaving the heel free to move.

In telemark skiing, the most commonly used equipment was bindings according to the “75 standard” such as for example the bindings described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,401,802 (Black Diamond Equipment). This type of binding is characterized by a fixed front binding, which maintains the so-called “duckbill” shape located at the front of the boot, as well as a cable tension system equipped with springs locking on the heel of the boot. The standard of these bindings requires a right binding and a left binding. Indeed, the shape of the soles is asymmetrical, with a more outwardly flared shape of the foot. However, it is possible to place a right boot in a left binding; as a result, the ski will not be aligned with the boot effectively making it considerably difficult to ski.

This boot standard also makes it difficult to walk on rocks when climbing up a mountain. It does not allow the use of standard ice cleats and limits the use of this type of boot solely to skis with telemark bindings. Besides the right and left binding problem, it is always very difficult to fit the boots in the bindings. The skier is frequently obliged to place one knee on the ground to immobilize the ski and be able to lock the tension system on the heel of the boot. These operations are made even more difficult, in the presence of snow. Indeed, as skis are rarely equipped with “ski stops”, they slip easily sometimes making the locking operation tedious. Finally, boot removal in the case of a fall is practically impossible, such that the use of these bindings therefore involves a high risk of injury for skiers.

In 1995, the company ROTTEFELLA filed a German patent application, which was extended by an international patent application published under the number WO 96/23558. This document outlines and details a new binding concept between a boot and an item of sports equipment, such as a ski in particular. The fundamentals of this concept would lead ten years later to a new standard called NTN, which will be explained hereinafter in the present description. The idea developed in WO 96/23558 is no longer that of binding the boot to the ski between the toe and the heel, but of merely binding the so-called metatarsophalangeal joint zone with the sports equipment. The concept of this invention was that of providing an enhanced binding device, reconciling the problems of lifting the heel of the boot, torsion control and material fatigue. The idea of a specific binding of the so-called metatarsophalangeal joint has indeed offered a number of advantages in the practice of sport and particularly of telemark skiing. However, the main objective, which was to resolve material fatigue, has never been achieved as will be explained in more detail hereinafter in the present description.

In the mid-2000s, a group of manufacturers defined the new standard mentioned above, called “New Telemark Norm” or NTN, which establishes a new ski/boot interface standard. The new boots, defined by this standard, can be used for telemark or alpine skiing, and can receive standard ice cleats. The sole of the boot is divided into two parts: the front sole specific to the NTN standard and the heel which is conventional and separate from the front sole. The specificity of the front sole stems from the projection (NTN attachment zone) which is located at the level of the arch of the foot at the center of the boot, at the rear end of the front sole. Thus the boot can be rigidly connected to the ski while being held between the front portion of the front sole and the projection. The sole is also symmetrical. This new standard has made it possible to create bindings which combine the freedom of movement of the heel specific to telemark skiing and which incorporate a safety device releasing the boot if the skier falls. As the bindings are symmetrical, the user can put on the ski that they wish as they would for conventional alpine ski bindings, there is no longer any left or right ski. Addressing a number of problems of the 75 norm standard, these bindings can also incorporate ski stops and provide extra safety for skiers.

Among the binding models complying with the NTN standard, mention will particularly be made of the binding described in document EP 1 790 396, which is marketed by the company ROTTEFELLA under the trade name FREERIDE™. This binding comprises an assembly for immobilizing the front end of the boot, which particularly includes a toe piece. This toe piece, in the shape of a horseshoe, holds the front of the boot and the lateral overhangs ensuring a satisfactory hold of the boot. The boot is kept flat along the front 40 millimeters of the boot. Therefore, the first 30 millimeters of the shell of the boot are also kept flat by the toe piece which exerts the holding function thereof on the lateral overhangs of the sole.

In the mode of Telemark use, the front immobilization assembly cited above is locked in rotation with respect to the ski. The front part of the boot is kept flat, parallel with the ski. The toe piece being locked in rotation, the boot is constrained when the heel is lifted. It is firstly observed that, when practicing Telemark skiing, the sole of the boot is considerably damaged. On lifting the heel, when the gusset is fully compressed, the area of the boot located between the front of the gusset and the portion held by the toe piece is deformed as the portion of the sole located immediately above is locked in the toe piece. The lateral overhangs of the boots are marked considerably and sometimes tear. After a few months of use, the boot is irremediably deformed and substantial play between the boot and the binding appears, introducing a floating sensation which limits ski control precision.

Moreover, the toe piece is also subject to substantial stress, such that there is a substantial risk of mechanical rupture of this part. Finally, this binding does not offer progressive flexion for the user seeking to practice Telemark skiing. In particular, during certain flexural movement phases completed by the user, this flexion is not perceived as regular, varies considerably sometimes with play and moments without tension.

This binding offers an additional mode of use, of ski touring type, wherein this front immobilizing assembly is freed, so as to be able to pivot with respect to the ski about a transverse axis located under the front portion of the sole of the boot. Therefore, in telemark mode, the toe piece is locked whereas in ski touring mode, the toe piece is free to rotate.

In sum, the type of bindings, described above, involves numerous drawbacks, particularly deformation and wear of the boots due to the stress created by the new geometry of the toe piece as well as the high levels of stress in the binding.

Bindings complying with the NTN standard are known, which are marketed by the company 22DESIGN under the reference OUTLAW™. This binding uses a short toe piece with little engagement of the sole. Only the first 10 millimeters of the sole are engaged in the toe piece. The lateral overhangs of the sole not being held. This choice allows a certain degree of rotation of the boot within this toe piece. Accordingly, the locking sensation is reduced, particularly with regard to the solution described immediately above. However, this reduction in length of the toe piece gives rise to significant risks of the boot coming out of this toe piece. This also results in less precision during edging when the user wishes to take a bend. Indeed, as the overhangs of the sole are not used, the lateral load transmission is reduced. The user can thus perceive the play of the boot in the binding due to the weak engagement of the boot. In order to remedy this specific drawback, it has been proposed to incorporate powerful springs, so as to lock the boot at the bottom of the toe piece. This significant return force requires a very high level of physical exertion, however, when practicing Telemark skiing. Moreover, it is also accompanied by premature sole wear, as in the FREERIDE binding described above.

In view of the above, the aim of the present invention is that of remedying at least some drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

The introduction of the NTN standard has divided the telemark community, as the products proposed required a change of technique. In 2014, the applicant introduced a new product names MEIDJO™ onto the market which, while using boots conforming to the NTN standard, makes it possible to regain the sensations of conventional so-called “75 norm” bindings. The present invention proposes first of all to offer the same convenience of use.

The aim of the present invention is also that of proposing a binding which makes it possible to reduce mechanical stress, when practicing Telemark skiing.

The aim of the present invention is also that of proposing such a binding, which prevents any untimely wear of the boot.

The aim of the present invention is also that of proposing such a binding, which ensures pleasant practice of Telemark skiing for the user, particularly by allowing the most natural leg flexion possible with regular and progressive tension.

The aim of the present invention is also that of proposing such a binding, which enables boot fitting that is particularly simple and quick to carry out.

Finally, the aim of the invention is that of proposing such a binding which is capable of incorporating, on the front part thereof, a safety system with a view to boot removal.

Subject Matter of the Invention

This invention relates to a binding wherein the front assembly (referenced 3 in appended FIG. 1) is mounted in a floating manner and free to rotate on an axis (referenced A3 in FIG. 1) perpendicular to the skier's direction of natural movement, ideally positioned just in front of the boot. This floating front assembly associated with a suitable tension system (formed by references 6 and 66 in the appended figures), making it possible to create an adapted triangle of forces, offers the user flexion with regular and progressive holding tension, without excessive stress on the equipment. This invention therefore limits the internal forces in the system without constraining the boot excessively. The effect of the floating front assembly with a pivot point ideally placed just in front of the boot makes it possible to obtain two phases of optimal use for the user:

-   -   During the first phase of lifting the heel (angle up to         approximately 30°), as shown in appended FIG. 8, the front         assembly (2) is held in the horizontal position. Indeed, the         pressure exerted by the user on the base of the front assembly         (32) combined with the pivot axis (A3) located in front of the         boot, applies a reverse tilting force to the heel lift         direction. Naturally, the mechanism keeps the front part of the         boot flat. For this reason, the pressure is maximum on the ski         and enables good path control.     -   During the second phase of lifting the heel (lift angle greater         than 30°—see FIG. 9 appended) when the user extends their step         or when they are obliged to bend more to cushion the fault in         the terrain, the stress exerted by the boot on the toe piece         (32) becomes greater. As the front assembly is free to pivot,         the force exerted by the boot on the toe piece naturally         actuates the front assembly which can pivot about the axis (A3)         and accompany the boot. In this specific case, the triangle of         forces is enlarged. The force of the springs being maximal, the         user can perfectly control their ski without excessive stress on         the boot at the toe piece (32).

According to the invention, at least of the above aims is achieved by a ski binding (1; 101), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for binding a ski boot (8; 208), including a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) including:

-   -   a front plate (2; 102; 202), with reference to the direction of         movement of the ski, this front plate being designed to be         rigidly connected to the ski,     -   a front assembly (3; 103; 203) for immobilizing the boot,         capable of cooperating with the sole (81; 281) of the boot (8;         208),     -   a rear assembly (6; 106; 206) for retaining the boot, with         reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this rear         assembly being capable of cooperating with a retaining lug (85;         285) of the rear portion of the front sole and/or with the rear         sole, this rear assembly being movable with respect to said         front plate in the vertical plane,     -   tensioning means (66; 266; 266′) which act between the rear         retaining assembly (6; 106; 206) and the ski and/or the front         plate (2, 102; 202), which are capable of tensioning the boot         (8; 208) on the binding (1; 101; 201) and enabling the heel (84;         284) to be lifted freely,

characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted in a floating manner on the front plate, about a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203) located, viewed longitudinally, in front of a so-called supporting point (32′) belonging to the front assembly, said supporting point enabling the front end (81′) of the sole (81; 281) of the boot to be supported,

the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), with respect to the front plate (2, 102; 202), being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3), this hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located to the rear, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis.

The binding according to the invention can comprise all or some of the following features, insofar as they are technically compatible:

-   -   the transverse pivot axis (A3) is located, in the longitudinal         direction, in front of a so-called stop point (36) belonging to         the front assembly, this stop point (36) enabling the stopping         of the front end of a locking lug (83) belonging to the boot,     -   the transverse pivot axis (A3) is located, viewed         longitudinally, immediately in front of said stop point (36),     -   the distance (L36) separating, along a longitudinal direction,         the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the hinged axis (A6) of the         rear retaining assembly (6) is between 20 and 120 mm,         particularly between 35 mm and 80 mm,     -   in a first flexion phase, the immobilization assembly does not         pivot substantially and, in a second greater boot flexion phase,         this immobilization assembly pivots with respect to the plate,     -   the distance (X3) separating, along a longitudinal direction,         the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the supporting point (32′) is         between 0 and 40 mm, in particular between 0 and 25 mm,     -   the distance (Y3) separating, along a vertical direction, the         transverse pivot axis (A3) and the supporting point (32′) is         between −30 mm and +30 mm,     -   the front immobilization assembly (3) of the boot comprises a         toe piece (40) and a supporting member (30) of the boot, that         can move mutually between an immobilization position and a boot         release position, this front assembly further comprising a         locking element (5) for mutually locking the toe piece and the         supporting member, in said immobilization position,     -   the front immobilization assembly (103) of the boot made of one         piece.

The invention also relates to a method for adjusting a ski binding (1; 101; 201), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for binding a ski boot (8; 208), including a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) comprising:

-   -   a front plate (2; 102; 202), designed to be rigidly connected to         the ski,     -   a front assembly (3; 103; 203) for immobilizing the boot,         capable of cooperating with the sole (81; 281) of the boot (8;         208),     -   a rear assembly (6; 106; 206) for retaining the boot, capable of         cooperating with a retaining lug (85; 285) of the rear portion         of the front sole and/or with the rear sole, this rear assembly         being movable with respect to said front plate in the vertical         plane,     -   tensioning means (66; 266; 266′) which act between the rear         retaining assembly (6; 106; 206) and the ski and/or the front         plate (2, 102; 202), which are capable of tensioning the boot         (8; 208) on the binding (1; 101; 201) and enabling the heel (84;         284) to be lifted freely,     -   the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) being mounted in         a floating manner on the front plate, about a transverse pivot         axis (A3; A103; A203),     -   the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106)         being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3), this hinged         axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located         to the rear, in the direction of movement, of this transverse         pivot axis.

this method being characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted in a floating manner on the front plate, about a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203),

the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), with respect to the front plate (2, 102; 202), is distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3), this hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located to the rear, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis,

and in that the positioning of the pivot axis is adjusted and, where applicable, the tensioning means are adjusted such that, in a first flexion phase, the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) does not pivot substantially and, in a second greater boot flexion phase, this front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) pivots with respect to the plate.

According to an advantageous feature of this method, the distance (L36) separating, along a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly is furthermore adjusted.

The invention finally relates to a ski comprising a binding (1) as above.

It is to the applicant's credit of having identified that certain drawbacks of the prior art, as described in particular in EP 1 790 396, arise from locking the toe piece with respect to the ski, in the Telemark position. Indeed, such locking is the source of significant mechanical stress, which results in premature wear of the boot and the binding.

In substance, this stress is inherent to the immobilization of the front portion of the sole in the toe piece of the binding. Indeed, during flexion associated with telemark skiing, the front portion of the sole is gripped in the toe piece. The latter being fixed, this results in significant deformation of the sole, which bears on this toe piece. Over time, the whole boot is deformed, and the sole develops play in the toe piece, inducing deformation of the shoe and a significant loss of precision for the user.

On the contrary, according to the invention, the immobilization assembly is mounted in a floating manner. In other words, the pivoting of this assembly with respect to the ski is entirely free, i.e. the invention avoids the use of a locking member as described in EP 1 790 396.

Accordingly, this floating and rotatable property makes it possible to substantially reduce the stress exerted on the binding according to the invention, as well as on the shoe immobilized in this binding. In this regard, the stress associated with the tilting torque at the front zone of the boot is reduced, given that the boot can tilt when the toe piece is subject to substantial stress. Under these conditions, the service life both of the binding and the boot is enhanced.

Moreover, according to a particularly advantageous feature of the invention, the floating property described above is not accompanied by instability, which would be detrimental to the satisfactory use of the binding. Indeed, the pivot axis of the immobilization assembly, with respect to the front plate, is positioned judiciously. In this regard, a person skilled in the art would be able to adjust certain dimensional parameters which will be detailed hereinafter.

Accordingly, during the initial flexion phase, the user's weight induces natural downward tilting of the toe of the boot, in the opposite direction of this flexion. In this way, the immobilization assembly is substantially fixed whereas the front of the shoe is kept flat, in a stable manner. The immobilization assembly is then moved, during a more accentuated phase of this flexion, so as to follow the pivoting of the boot. The overall flexural movement is therefore carried out particularly naturally, which is very pleasant for the user.

It is also to the applicant's credit of having identified the drawbacks of the prior art, as described in WO 96/23558. In substance, this document applies an interpretation of the drawings to outline an operational product suitable for industrialization. The analysis of FIG. 1, which is the basis of the teaching of WO 96/23558, describes a binding concept wherein the boot is held by the toe and a protuberance located under the sole, as well as a tension system connecting these two zones. It should be noted that the tension system is connected to the toe piece which holds the toe of the boot by means of an axis numbered 23 in this figure. A person skilled in the art would readily understand that this concept may indeed work in theory, but only on one condition: the toe piece must be locked or significantly restricted in rotation. This condition is required for the tension system to work, otherwise the boot pivots with the toe piece without stretching the tension system. This condition is indeed fulfilled thanks to the part 25 seen in FIG. 1 which restricts the rotation of the assembly 22. This condition is also detailed in FIGS. 6, 7 and 14 of the document WO 96/23558, where it can be seen that the part 22′ (FIGS. 6 and 7) or the part 54 (FIG. 14) is not movable but rigidly connected to the ski. It will therefore be noted that the binding concept, detailed in document WO 96/23558, the toe piece is either locked or significantly restricted in the rotation thereof.

Glossary table Identification Description  1 Binding  2 Front plate 20 Base of front plate 21 Binding hole of base of front plate 22 Lateral wing of front plate 23 Front assembly supporting zone  3 Front assembly 30 Base of front assembly supporting the sole of the boot 32 Zone of the base of the front assembly supporting the sole of the boot 34 Lateral wing of the base the assembly holding the boot laterally 35 Passage orifice of the axis A3 38 Locking part holding cap 36 Front supporting wing of front assembly A3 Transverse pivot axis of front assembly A103 Transverse pivot axis of front assembly according to a second embodiment 40 Toe piece 50 Toe piece locking part  6 Rear assembly A6 Transverse axis of tension system P60 60 Tension system housing 62 Tensioning rod  62′ Tensioning cable according to the third embodiment 64 Rear NTN binding of the tension housing 66 Tension spring 68 Tension adjustment wheel  7 Binding heelpiece  8 Telemark boot 81 Front sole 82 Front shoe 83 Front contact zone 84 Rear contact zone - heel binding 85 NTN contact zone - Projection 86 Gusset  9 Ski

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Further advantages of the invention will emerge on reading the description of two embodiments of the invention, given hereinafter merely by way of indication and not limitation, with reference to the appended drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view, illustrating a binding according to a first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view, helping better understand the various elements making up this first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a lateral view of the binding, according to this first embodiment, equipped with a telemark ski boot, the whole being assembled on a ski.

FIG. 4 is a lateral view similar to FIG. 3, of a section of the binding, according to this first embodiment, equipped with a telemark ski boot, which helps gain a better understanding of the elements of the mechanism according to the invention. This figure also defines the zone, known as zone 3, wherein the axis (A3; A103) can be located.

FIG. 5 is a lateral and sectional view of the binding, showing the concept of the floating front assembly pivoting about the axis (A3; A103) as well as the tension system in the first embodiment.

FIGS. 6 to 8 are a set of lateral-view figures of the binding equipped with a telemark ski boot, illustrating the three successive phases of use of the binding according to this first embodiment of the invention. These figures help clearly understand the concept of the floating front assembly and the procedure when lifting the heel.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the binding according to a second embodiment of the invention wherein the tension system is offset inside the plate 2, thus freeing the space under the boot.

FIG. 10 is a lateral view of the binding according to a second embodiment of the invention equipped with a ski boot.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are lateral sectional views of the binding according to this second embodiment of the invention, wherein the various positions of the axis A6 can be observed.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view, illustrating this third embodiment of the invention, wherein the boot is held between the toe 83 and the heel 84.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view, illustrating this third embodiment of the invention, wherein a one-piece front assembly pivoting about the axis A103 can be observed.

FIG. 15 is a lateral view, illustrating this third embodiment of the invention, equipped with a telemark ski boot.

FIG. 16 is a lateral sectional view, more precisely on the front portion of the binding, illustrating a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein the toe piece 40 can pivot about the axis A3 independently of the base of the front assembly. In this view, the toe piece is locked in rotation by the part 50 which, when it is actuated and pivots, releases the toe piece 40 helping release the toe of the boot.

FIG. 17 is a lateral sectional view, more precisely on the front portion of the binding, illustrating this fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein the front assembly pivots about the axis A3.

FIGS. 18 and 19 are lateral sectional views, more precisely on the front portion of the binding, illustrating this fourth embodiment of the invention, showing the release of the toe piece 40 after the tilting of 50 enabling the release of the boot.

FIG. 20 is a larger-scale side view of a boot complying with the NTN standard as described above, this boot being capable of cooperating with the binding of the preceding figures.

FIGS. 21 to 23 are respectively perspective, side and longitudinal sectional views, illustrating a binding according to an additional embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In this description, the expressions “front”, “rear”, “in front of”, “behind”, “forward movement” and “backward movement” refer to the direction of ski movement in a normal scenario of use. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 8, the binding 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention essentially includes a front plate 2, a front immobilization assembly 3, a rear retaining assembly 6 and a heelpiece 7.

The front plate 2 firstly comprises a base 20, designed to be placed flat on a ski 9, as particularly shown in FIG. 1. With reference particularly to FIG. 2, with a view to binding the plate on the ski, the base is hollowed out with holes 21, enabling the passage of binding means not shown. In a manner known per se, these binding means are for example removable, in particular screw type. Two mutually parallel wings 22 extend upward from the base 20. These wings 22 define recesses 23 designed to support the immobilization assembly 3, in the lower position thereof. Moreover, in the vicinity of the rear end thereof, each wing 22 is perforated with an opening 24, designed for hinging the retaining assembly 6 as will be seen hereinafter.

The front immobilization assembly 3 is hinged with respect to the plate 2, about a transverse axis annotated A3. It will be noted that, according to the invention, this assembly 3 is mounted in a “floating” manner with respect to this plate 2 or, in other words, is free to rotate with respect to this plate. Expressed in another way, no specific member designed for mutually locking the plate 2 and the assembly 3, in rotation about this axis A3, is provided.

This assembly 3 firstly comprises a member 30, for supporting the front of a boot 8 as illustrated particularly in FIG. 4, as well as 15 to 18. This boot, complying with the NTN standard as described above, is more specifically illustrated in FIG. 20. In a manner known per se, this boot 8 comprises a sole 81, from which the shoe 82 extends. Moreover, a lug (front contact zone) 83, for locking the boot, projects to the front from the sole 81. According to the invention, this lug 83 is not part of this sole.

The supporting member 30 cited above comprises a bottom plate 32, from which two lateral flanks 34 extend, as well as a front seat 36. Each flank 34 is perforated with an orifice 35, allowing the passage of the physical axis extending along the axis A3. The front end of the plate 32, as well as the seat 36, are curved according to the shape of the front end of the vamp of the boot 8. Moreover, the supporting member 30 is equipped with a cap 38, enabling the hinging of a latch 50 as will be seen hereinafter.

The assembly 3 further comprises a toe piece 40, which is hinged with respect to the supporting member 30 about the abovementioned axis A3. This toe piece 40 comprising a top covering 42, wherein the rear edge 43 is curved. The covering 42 is extended downward by lateral edges 44, which cover the outer face of the flanks 34. Each edge is perforated with a respective orifice 46, which is placed facing the orifice 35 formed in each flank 34. The plate 32, the flanks 34, the seat 36 and the top 42 delimit a housing 48, for immobilizing the boot 8.

In an embodiment, axes 39 secure the toe piece 40 and the supporting member 30. They are immobile with respect to one another, when the boot rotates the toe piece 40, the supporting member 30 is also rotated.

During use, the sole 81 of the boot is inserted under this covering 42, whereas the front end of the lug 83 abuts against the seat 36 as shown in FIG. 4. In this FIG. 4, the point of the plate 32, according to a longitudinal sectional view, supporting the front end 81′ of the sold 81 is annotated 32′. As mentioned above, this end 81′ is located immediately to the rear of the lug 83, since the latter is not part of the sole. Moreover, the front end of the vamp 82 of the boot 8 abuts against the abovementioned rear edge 43. The front point of this edge 43 is annotated 43′, particularly in FIGS. 2 and 4. The point 32′ of the plate is substantially plumb with this front point 43′.

In an embodiment, the assembly 3 finally comprises a latch 50, ensuring the mutual immobilization of the supporting member 30 and the toe piece 40. This latch 50 is hinged on the abovementioned cap 38, about an axis A50, parallel with the axis A3 and located to the front thereof. This latch is equipped with an actuation relief 52, hollowed out with a recess 54 for supporting a ski stick. The profile of this latch firstly defines a flat immobilization section 56, designed to be wedged under the covering 42 so as to prevent the pivoting of the toe piece 40. This flat section 56 is extended by a ramp 57, intended to be inserted under the abovementioned covering 42, when pressure is applied on the relief 52. Finally, this ramp ends with a shoulder 58, helping hold the toe piece 40 by wedging, when the latter has been moved by pivoting away from the supporting member 30.

The latch 50 can move between two functional positions, illustrated respectively in FIGS. 16 to 19. In FIGS. 16 and 17, the latch is in the active locking position thereof, such that the toe piece 4 and the supporting member 3 are mutually rigidly connected in rotation. On the other hand, in FIGS. 18 and 19, the latch is in the idle unlocking position thereof. In this position, the toe piece can pivot freely with respect to the supporting member, about the abovementioned axis A3.

The rear retaining assembly 6 is of a type known per se, such that it will not be described in detail hereinafter. This assembly 6 comprises a base 60, for supporting the front portion of the boot. This base supports two rods 62, each of which enters a respective opening 24, so as to be hinged on the plate 2. Opposite the rods, the base is extended by a nose 64 for conventionally attaching the boot, at the level of a lug not shown. As particularly shown in FIG. 10, the hinged axis A6 of the rear retaining assembly 6 with respect to the plate, is located to the rear of the abovementioned axis A3. The technical effect, associated with the mutual positioning between the two axes, will be specified hereinafter.

Furthermore, conventional means 66 for tensioning the assembly 66, particularly with a spring, are provided. These means 66, which work in compression, tend to move the end of the rods and the coupling nose closer together. Advantageously, these tensioning means are of adjustable intensity, particularly by means of screws 68. Finally, this element 6 is equipped with means, not shown, for “Step In” type boot fitting. For this purpose, this retaining assembly 6 is advantageously equipped with a tensioning rod cooperating with a stop provided on the ski, according to the teaching of the French patent 3 016 799 held by the applicant.

The heelpiece 7, also of a type known per se, will likewise not be described in detail hereinafter. This heelpiece firstly comprises a supporting element 70, defining a top surface 71 for positioning the heel of the boot at a determined height. Moreover, this heelpiece can also include a locking member not shown, equipped with locking elements capable of cooperating selectively with the rear portion of the boot.

The use of the binding 1, as described above, will not be explained hereinafter.

In a first embodiment, the supporting member 3 and the toe piece 40 are rigidly connected by the axes 39. In a further embodiment, it is firstly assumed that the latch 50 is in the active position thereof, such that the support member 3 and the toe piece 40 are immobilized in rotation, as explained above. The user then exerts an action on the tensioning rod, mentioned above, so as move the nose 64 away from the rods 62. This nose 64 is then coupled to a retaining lug 85, particularly seen in FIG. 4, belonging to this boot. In the example illustrated, this lug 85 is provided at the rear end of the front zone of the boot. However, by way of alternative embodiment not shown, this lug 85 can be placed at the rear end 84 of this boot.

The user can then practice Telemark skiing, particularly by means of flexion of the inner leg against the tensioning means 66. During this flexion, the user tends to compress or “break” a gusset 86, provided in the front portion of the boot and clearly visible in FIG. 20. With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, a so-called angle of flexion aF is defined, which is formed between the horizontal and the principal plane P60 of the base 60 of the retaining element 6.

In a first flexion phase, corresponding to a low value of the angle of flexion (for example 30° in FIG. 7), the immobilization assembly 3 does not pivot substantially with respect to the plate 2, even if this assembly is mounted in a floating manner as explained above. This means that, with respect to the initial position thereof, the immobilization assembly 3 forms an angle, annotated a3 in FIG. 8, which is less than 3° (in the drawing this angle is close to −7°). Accordingly, the front of the boot is kept flat. On the other hand, the rear of the boot is raised, by means of compression of the gusset 86.

Then, when the user continues to bend the boot, the immobilization assembly 3 then pivots with respect to the plate 2 according to the arrow F3, as shown in FIG. 8. This pivoting is obtained beyond a threshold value of the angle of flexion, which is for example close to 40°. In FIG. 8, this angle of flexion has a value of close to 80°. Moreover, the immobilization assembly 3 forms a significant angle α3, with respect to the initial position thereof, typically greater than 10°.

A person skilled in the art is capable of taking several parameters into account, with a view to optimal operation of the binding 1. In particular, they can adjust the positioning of the axis A3, both in height and along the longitudinal direction of the ski. In this regard, FIG. 4 illustrates the zone wherein this axis can be positioned. In this FIG. 4, the boot 8 is featured, wherein the vamp bears against the edge 43′. Moreover, the lug 83 abuts against the seat 36, whereas the front end 81′ of the sole bears against the so-called characteristic point 32′ belonging to the plate 32.

The zone Z3, represented overall by a rectangle in this FIG. 4, illustrates the different possibilities with a view to the positioning of the axis A3. Preferably, this axis is placed immediately in front of the seat 36, namely immediately facing the lug 83. This means that the distance between this seat 36 and this axis A3 is very small, typically less than 3 millimeters.

Starting from the characteristic point 32′, the respectively horizontal and vertical dimensions of the zone Z3 are annotated X3 and Y3. Typically, X3 is less than 40 mm millimeters, preferably than 25 millimeters. By way of example, in FIG. 4, A3 is located in front of the point 32′ along a distance less than 16 mm.

Moreover, typically, Y3 is between −30 millimeters and +30 millimeters with respect to the point 32′, in which case the axis A3 is positioned vertically more or less above or below the sole of the boot. In FIG. 4, the axis A3 is positioned facing the sole with a value of Y3 equal to +8 millimeters, namely that this axis is positioned slightly above this point 32′. In the case where the axis A3 is placed below the characteristic point, therefore vertically below the sole plane, this makes it possible to free a space, wherein an additional mechanical system, particularly a safety boot removal system of any suitable type, can be provided.

It is noted that, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the axis A3 is located in front of the seat of the toe piece, helping support the lug 83. Nevertheless, it can be envisaged that this axis extends further forward, namely in the vicinity of the supporting point 32′. In this latter case, this axis extends through the lug 83, i.e. it consists of a geometric axis, but not a physical axis. Suitable means are then provided, enabling the pivoting about this purely geometric, or virtual, axis. These means can be for example return means, such as connecting rods or external pivots placed in the flanks 24, whereon the assembly 3 pivots.

In order to carry out flexion in two phases, which is the most pleasant possible for the user, a person skilled in the art would be able to adjust the value of at least one of these characteristic dimensions X3 and Y3. They would also be able to adjust the force of the tensioning means 66, thanks to the screw 68. A person skilled in the art can also take into account the user's shoe size or the flexibility of the boot.

Moreover, in this FIG. 10, the distance L36 separating along the longitudinal axis the pivot point A3 and the hinge point A6 of the rear retaining assembly 6 is noted. As seen above, the axis A3 is located in front of the axis A6 so as to form a triangle of forces formed by these two axes and by the user's heel, which induces a tilting of the shoe. This distance is advantageously between 20 and 120 millimeters, being preferably between 35 and 80 millimeters. In this way, the triangle of forces mentioned above provides particularly satisfactory tilting of this boot.

In the mode of use described in FIG. 16 to 19, if the user seeks to remove a boot, they firstly exert a downward pressure on the recess 54, along the arrow f50 in FIG. 18. Typically, this action is carried out by means of the tip of their stick. This causes a pivoting of the latch about the axis A50 thereof, which is represented by the arrow F50 in FIG. 18. Accordingly, the flat section is no longer engaged with the covering 42 and the ramp 57 slides along the bottom face of this covering.

The user can then exert an upward action, so as to pivot the toe piece along the arrow F40 in FIG. 19. Typically, this action is carried out by means of the washer of the stick. At the end of the travel of the pivoting of the toe piece, the front end of the covering 42 is held in position by the shoulder 58 of the latch, as shown in FIG. 19. The user can then raise the front end of the boot, for boot removal. It will be noted that this boot removal can be carried out without particular effort, since it is not carried out against the tensioning means 66.

FIGS. 9 to 12 illustrate a second embodiment of the binding, according to the present invention. This second embodiment is characterized in that the tension system is placed inside the plate 2, helping free the space under the arch of the foot of the boot. This embodiment also makes it possible to design an adjustable axis A6, along the longitudinal direction of the ski. This adjustment of the position of the axis A6 makes it possible to adapt the activity of the binding, according to the boot size or the user's taste. In these figures, all the elements bear the same numbers. Only the elements of the tension system offset to the front appear with the indication “′”.

FIGS. 13 to 15 illustrate a further embodiment of the binding, according to the present invention. In these FIGS. 13 to 15, the mechanical elements equivalent to those in FIGS. 1 to 8 are assigned the same reference numbers therein, increased by the number 100.

The binding 101 according to this embodiment differs from that 1, according to the first embodiment, particularly in that the immobilization assembly 103 is made of one piece. In other words, this assembly 103 does not comprise two mutually movable elements, such as the supporting member and the toe piece in the figures above. Moreover, the assembly 103 is devoid of a latch, such as that 50 of the first embodiment,

More precisely, the assembly 103 comprises two support plates 132, which are extended upward by two lateral flanks 134. The upper ends of these flanks are connected by a covering 142, wherein the rear edge 143 is curved according to the shape of the front end of the boot. These mechanical elements delimit a housing 148, for immobilizing this boot.

It will be noted that, unlike the first embodiment, the housing 148 is open to the front, namely it is devoid of a seat, such as that 36. The plates 132 are extended downward by respective edges 133, wherein orifices enabling the passage of a physical axis are formed. The latter provides the hinge of the assembly 103 with respect to the front plate 102, about a transverse axis A103.

The use of the binding 101 is similar to that of the binding of the first embodiment, in terms of boot fixing, as well as the two flexion phases. On the other hand, boot removal from the binding 101 is different, given that the latter does not include a toe piece pivoting with respect to the supporting member. For this purpose, the user must unhook the nose 164 with respect to the boot, so as to enable such boot removal.

FIGS. 21 to 23 illustrate a further embodiment of the binding, according to the present invention. In these FIGS. 21 to 23, the mechanical elements equivalent to those of the first embodiment are assigned the same reference numbers therein, increased by the number 200. Moreover, the mechanical elements, equivalent to those in the embodiment in FIGS. 13 to 15, are assigned the same reference numbers thereof increased by the number 100.

The binding 201 according to this embodiment is firstly similar to that 101, in that the supporting member and the toe piece are not mutually movable. In other words, the immobilization assembly of 103 is made of a single piece. It will be noted that, in FIG. 21, the physical axis A203 is represented.

On the other hand, unlike the preceding embodiments, the retaining assembly 206 is not hinged on the plate 202. On the contrary, this assembly 206 is mounted directly on the immobilization assembly 203, with the possibility of sliding. For this purpose, a flexible guide 268, connecting these two assemblies, is provided.

Moreover, the plate 202 includes a housing 228, wherein a spring 266 is mounted. The rear end of this spring is placed facing a stop 229, whereas the front end of this spring is rigidly connected to a cable 266′, which is mounted on the nose 264. When the user bends forward, the cable compresses the spring, namely the front end thereof is moved to the rear.

Moreover, this cable is wound, forming a bend, about the axis A206. It will be noted that the latter is capable of sliding with respect to the plate, such that the length L236 is variable. In the front view, three different values of this length have been shown. This embodiment is advantageous, inter alia due to the fact that the spring is offset to the front. Accordingly, this makes it possible to free space to the rear of the binding, under the user's actual foot. 

1. Ski binding (1; 101; 201), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for binding a ski boot (8; 208), including a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) including: a front plate (2; 102; 202), with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this front plate being designed to be rigidly connected to the ski, a front assembly (3; 103; 203) for immobilizing the boot, capable of cooperating with the sole (81; 281) of the boot (8; 208), a rear assembly (6; 106; 206) for retaining the boot, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, this assembly being capable of cooperating with a retaining lug (85; 285) of the rear portion of the front sole and/or with the rear sole, this rear assembly being movable with respect to said front plate in the vertical plane, tensioning means (66; 266; 266′) which act between the rear retaining assembly (6, 106; 206) and the ski and/or the front plate (2, 102; 202), which are capable of tensioning the boot (8; 208) on the binding (1; 101; 201) and enabling the heel (84; 284) to be lifted freely, characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted in a floating manner on the front plate, about a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203) located, in a longitudinal direction, in front of a so-called supporting point (32′) belonging to the front assembly, said supporting point enabling the front end (81′) of the sole (81; 281) of the boot to be supported, the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), with respect to the front plate (2, 102; 202), being distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3), this hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located to the rear, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis.
 2. Binding (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203) is located, in the longitudinal direction, in front of a so-called stop point (36; 236) belonging to the front assembly, this stop point (36; 236) enabling the stopping of the front end of a locking lug (83; 283) belonging to the boot.
 3. Binding according to claim 1, characterized in that, the distance (L36; L236) separating, along a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3; A203) and the hinged axis (A6; A206) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 206) is between 20 and 120 mm, particularly between 35 mm and 80 mm.
 4. Binding according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance (X3) separating, along a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the supporting point (32′) is between 0 and 40 mm, in particular between 0 and 25 mm.
 5. Binding according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance (Y3) separating, along a vertical direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3) and the supporting point (32′) is between −30 mm and +30 mm.
 6. Binding (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3) of the boot comprises a toe piece (40) and a supporting member (30) of the boot, that can move mutually between an immobilization position and a boot release position, this front assembly further comprising a locking element (5) for mutually locking the toe piece and the supporting member, in said immobilization position.
 7. Binding (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (103) of the boot is made of one piece.
 8. Method for adjusting a ski binding (1; 101; 201), in particular a ski touring, telemark or cross-country ski binding, for binding a ski boot (8; 208), including a sole (81; 281) and a heel (84; 284), said ski binding (1) comprising: a front plate (2; 102; 202), designed to be rigidly connected to the ski, a front assembly (3; 103; 203) for immobilizing the boot, capable of cooperating with the sole (81; 281) of the boot (8; 208), a rear assembly (6; 106; 206) for retaining the boot, capable of cooperating with a retaining lug (85; 285) of the rear portion of the front sole and/or with the rear sole, this rear assembly being movable with respect to said front plate in the vertical plane, tensioning means (66; 266; 266′) which act between the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206) and the ski and/or the front plate (2, 102; 202), which are capable of tensioning the boot (8; 208) on the binding (1; 101; 201) and enabling the heel (84; 284) to be lifted freely, this method being characterized in that the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) is mounted in a floating manner on the front plate, about a transverse pivot axis (A3; A103; A203), the hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106; 206), with respect to the front plate (2, 102; 202), is distinct from the transverse pivot axis (A3), this hinged axis (A6) of the rear retaining assembly (6; 106) being located to the rear, with reference to the direction of movement of the ski, of this transverse pivot axis, and in that the positioning of the pivot axis is adjusted and, where applicable, the tensioning means are adjusted such that, in a first flexion phase, the front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) does not pivot substantially and, in a second greater boot flexion phase, this front immobilization assembly (3, 103; 203) pivots with respect to the plate.
 9. Method according to claim 8, wherein the distance (L36; L236) separating, along a longitudinal direction, the transverse pivot axis (A3; A203) and the hinged axis (A6; A206) of the rear retaining assembly is furthermore adjusted.
 10. Ski comprising a binding (1; 101; 201) according to claim
 1. 